Gehenna

Chapter 6

Chapter 6

A few days had passed since the celebration at the palace and the great revelation of the prophecy. Prince Numeriano stood at the gates of the royal palace, mounted on a majestic black horse, the first light of dawn casting long shadows on the cobblestone streets.

His steely gaze scanned the horizon as the final preparations for his journey to the barren lands were underway. The king had entrusted him with a mission of utmost importance.

Gathering his thoughts, Numeriano whispered the name of the prophecy girl under his breath, "Aika Manasvi Barlowe." The name felt strangely comforting as it rolled off his tongue, as though he already knew this girl would bring significant changes to his life.

The air was thick with anticipation, and the whispers of a prophecy being written had already begun to spread through the palace walls but none really know what it was about. 

Numeriano's heart was a whirlwind of emotions—duty, curiosity, and a faint trace of unease. He knew this journey would test him in ways he had never imagined.

Gathering his trusted advisors and a select group of elite guards, Numeriano began issuing final instructions. "We must be prepared for anything. The barren lands are fraught with dangers, both known and unknown."

Among the gathered soldiers was Captain Kyle, a seasoned warrior known for his loyalty and sharp instincts. "Your Highness," Kyle said, his voice steady, "we are ready to face whatever lies ahead. We will ensure your mission's success."

Meanwhile, Lyra lay comfortably on her fluffy bed, enjoying the rare moment of tranquility. After a while, she decided to sip tea on her private balcony, the gentle morning breeze caressing her face as she stepped outside. 

She looked out over the vast gardens, feeling a sense of peace. 'At last, some peace and quiet. No more squeezing into gowns or teetering on stilettos. And it seems Gehenna's social calendar is blissfully empty—no tea party invitations since my arrival in this world.' she thought, taking a slow sip of her tea. 

'Perhaps it's due to her increasingly wild reputation lately. Just think of the gossip following her broken engagement with the prince!',  The worries of her social life seemed distant and inconsequential for now.

Her thoughts drifted to the changes in her household. After much consideration, Lyra had decided to appoint Maria as her closest aide. She contemplated waiting for Jane's reply, but it seemed Jane might not wish to return.

Gehenna would not assume the role of queen this time, as her engagement with the second prince had been annulled, So Jane's noble status would only go to waste if she were to only become Gehenna's closest aide.

'It's evident that Jane has no intention of returning here. I get that, but it's such a shame; I had many ideas to make things right with her. I could even assist her in finding a lifelong partner if that's her concern. I don't harbor any resentment towards Jane; actually, I hold a great deal of admiration for her.' Lyra sighed, her gaze lingering on her own reflection in her tea.

Maria stood nearby, attentive but not intrusive. "Would you like more tea, Lady Gehenna?" she asked, her voice steady.

Maria had always been diligent, kind, and observant, traits that Lyra valued highly. She only hoped this new arrangement would bring a sense of stability and support during these uncertain times. 

"Yes, thank you, Maria," Lyra replied, handing her cup over. 

Maria poured the tea gracefully, her eyes cast down, a soft blush coloring her cheeks. 'Lady Gehenna is so serene and beautiful,' Maria thought, feeling a wave of admiration wash over her. 'I never imagined being in her presence would be so calming.'